Why study chemistry?

Why Chemistry? Because you are curious about how the world around you actually works! For example, through chemistry we have been able to answer fundamental questions about atomic structure, DNA, and photosynthesis, and we have subsequently transformed this essential knowledge base into highly practical applications. Through chemistry we synthesize compounds that can treat illness, harness solar energy, or monitor our environment. Chemistry has also allowed us to manufacture durable materials, bio-implants and nanoscale devices. Chemistry is all around us, and our quality of life is intimately linked to sensible developments of new materials and to a better understanding of all biological processes.

A degree in chemistry will give you a unique insight into areas that are central to biology, geology, materials science, medicine, environmental science, and many branches of engineering. It will give you practical skills through extensive hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment and it will provide you with a genuinely scientific approach to problem solving, and data analysis and interpretation. In short, a degree in chemistry will enable you to participate actively, productively, and responsibly in the material world around you.

Career opportunities

The chemistry program at K-State has a history of academic excellence and we continue to produce graduates that are sought by chemical industries, governmental laboratories, and educational institutions. A chemistry degree can also lead to other career paths and many of our chemistry graduates continue their studies in professions such as medicine, pharmacology, agriculture, chemical engineering, journalism, law, forensic science, and biochemistry. Many graduates decide to continue their education after completing their first degree and over half of our graduates attend medical school or graduate school. Students who plan to become high school science teachers may choose to earn dual degrees in chemistry and education.

Faculty

Our faculty is committed to providing the best possible education for our students, and several of our faculty members have received prestigious teaching awards in recognition of their efforts. In addition to their teaching duties, our professors are also extensively involved in research programs that cover all areas of modern chemistry.